Azar x Notion Presents: Henry Moodie Live at University of Birmingham

Following research from Census Wide that revealed almost 60% of Gen Z are struggling to make connections in real life, Azar is stepping up to help university students combat loneliness – which research has also shown 70% are experiencing at least once a week. 

This January, Azar is teaming up with rapidly rising singer-songwriter Henry Moodie to host a one-off gig at the University of Birmingham. Providing an opportunity to make new connections and an incentive to get out of the house (not always an easy feat in January) for a dose of high energy in a positive space, the event will be promoting togetherness at one of the most isolating times of the year. To enter, users will have to have downloaded the Azar app via link and enter their details before 5th January, or scan the QR code featured on the murals. When downloaded, an article link to win tickets will be pushed through notifications on the app where users who are 18+ can get access to free tickets for the exclusive gig.

Having gone from writing diary-like lyrics on his school lunch breaks to making relatable TikToks in lockdown and then releasing candid pop bangers in just a few years, Henry, who’s university age himself, has made his name as one to watch for 2024. Having already supported the likes of Mimi Webb and The Vamps, the artist has garnered over 160 streams, 6 million followers, and last year was named in the Top 10 most viewed UK artists on TikTok.

As part of their mission to facilitate connections in real life beyond our screens, especially for young people, Azar have also teamed up with illustrator Tess-Smith Roberts on a series of murals at Birmingham’s universities. With bright, uplifting colours and affirming messages, the artwork will be featured right by the gig venue, tying the project nicely together.

Looking ahead to the event, Henry comments: “I’m part of the generation that has grown up with social media, always able to hide behind our phones and I realise how difficult it can be to connect with new people. It’s so important for me to help people my age to get out there, make memories, and develop real-life connections, and I hope this gig is the kickstarter for lots of long-standing relationships.”